California records a new peak in solar power generation, says ISO

California State has witnessed a new peak in solar power generation on 14 August 2012, according the state’s power grid operator California Independent System Operator (ISO).

ISO said in its latest release that solar power has touched 1,003MW on the peak day saving 4,535 tons of CO2 output.

The transmission companies in the state are expected to upgrade most of the power lines between 2012 and 2018 to meet the state's 33% renewable portfolio standard, which calls for all the power utilities to obtain 33% of their power from renewable sources by 2020.

Besides, the transmission is expected to generate about 22,350MW more renewable energy around the state.

Several power utilities have already sought ISO to connect to the California grid in the future pertain to renewable sources.

About 27,700MW of solar, 7,600 MW of wind, and 15,000MW of conventional resources are in the pipeline seeking grid connection, according to ISO.